Apparatus for Improving the Noticeability of a Hat

ABSTRACT

An apparatus is presented for improving the noticeability of a hat. The apparatus includes a light source configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The apparatus also includes a mount coupled to the light source and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. The mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light source to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat. The apparatus additionally includes a battery receptacle electrically-coupled to the light source and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. Hats having improved noticeability and methods for improving the noticeability of a hat are also presented.

1. FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to hats, and more particularly, to apparatus that improve the noticeability of a hat.

2. BACKGROUND

Hats are commonly used to cover a portion of a head, which typically includes a crown of the head. Hats may provide protective functionality, and due to their prominent position, may also serve as aesthetic attire that complements an overall appearance of a wearer. Moreover, hats may serve to communicate information, such as status (e.g., social, military, professional, etc.) or affiliation (e.g., religious, political, corporate, sports, etc.). As such, the usefulness of a hat may be influenced by its ability to be seen.

The noticeability of a hat typically depends on lighting conditions within its ambient environment, which affects the hat's visibility to an observer. Such dependency requires that light directly illuminate one or more surfaces of the hat. A hat entering an ambient environment of little or no illumination may thus be unnoticed by an observer, resulting in a loss of usefulness to the wearer. Such loss may include an inability of the observer to discern decorative patterns, ornamental features, textures, text, logos, and so forth, of the hat. Such loss may also involve an inability of the observer to locate the wearer, which may be relevant in situations where safety is of concern. Hats having improved noticeability are therefore desirable, especially in dim or dark environments.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one aspect, the disclosure is directed to an apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat. The apparatus includes a light source configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The light source may include at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element. The apparatus also includes a mount coupled to the light source and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. The mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light source to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat. The mount may include a clip configured to insert into an orifice of the hat. The apparatus additionally includes a battery receptacle electrically coupled to the light source and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a switch configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle to the light source. In some embodiments, a charging circuit is electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto.

In another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a hat having improved noticeability. The hat includes an exterior surface that is visible when the hat is worn. The hat also includes a light source coupled to the hat and configured to illuminate the exterior surface upon receiving electrical energy. The hat additionally includes a battery receptacle having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. The battery receptacle is electrically-coupled to the light source, and in some embodiments, is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. In some embodiments, the hat includes a mount coupling the light source to the hat and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. The mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light source to project light onto the exterior surface of the hat. The hat may include an orifice for receiving a clip of the mount. In some embodiments, a charging circuit is electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a method for improving the noticeability of a hat. The method includes producing light from a light source coupled to the hat. The light source is configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The method also includes orienting the light source such that light therefrom illuminates an exterior surface of the hat. While orienting the light source, the method may optionally involve distributing light across the exterior surface using at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element. In some embodiments, the method includes altering an amount of electrical energy received by the light source to alter an intensity of light produced therefrom. In further embodiments, altering the amount of electrical energy includes altering the amount of electrical energy in response to an intensity of ambient light measured by a photosensor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 1 is a schematic, perspective view of a construction site having workers operating at night, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 2A, but from an opposing viewpoint, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2C is an exploded view of the apparatus of FIG. 2A showing a coupling of the apparatus to an orifice of a hat, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 2B, but having a photovoltaic cell coupled to a mount of the apparatus, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view is presented of an apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat, but in which the apparatus is configured to illuminate a circumferential area around the hat, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3B is an enlarged, perspective view of an individual light source of the apparatus of FIG. 3A, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 3A attached to a hat, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat and having a light source configured to indirectly illuminate the hat, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4B is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of an optically-transmissive element seated within a mount of the apparatus of FIG. 4A, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 4A attached to a hat, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat, but in which the apparatus includes a second light source that is outward-facing, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an apparatus having a second light source that is outward-facing and disposed on a front side of a mount, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of an apparatus having a plurality of second light sources that are outward-facing and disposed on a circumferential member of a mount, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6C is an enlarged, perspective view of an individual second light source of the plurality of second light sources depicted in FIG. 6B, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7A is an exploded view, shown in perspective, of a hat having improved noticeability, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7B is an enlarged, perspective view of a second electrical connector of the hat of FIG. 7A, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of a mount of the hat of FIG. 7A, but from a viewpoint opposite that shown in FIG. 7A, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a hat having an exterior surface that is visible when the hat is worn, but in which a portion of the hat orients a light source to project light onto the exterior surface, according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram of an electronic circuit having a light source electrically-coupled to a battery receptacle, according to an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram of the electronic circuit of FIG. 9A, but in which the electric circuit includes a control circuit, according to an illustrative embodiment.

The figures described above are only exemplary and their illustration is not intended to assert or imply any limitation with regard to the environment, architecture, design, configuration, method, or process in which different embodiments may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical structural, mechanical, electrical, and chemical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. To avoid detail not necessary to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein, the description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the illustrative embodiments is defined only by the appended claims.

In the drawings and description that follow, like parts are typically marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals or coordinated numerals. The drawings (or figures) are not necessarily to scale. Certain features of the illustrative embodiments may be shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some details of conventional elements may not be shown in the interest of clarity and conciseness.

Workers in many industries commonly wear impact-resistant hats or helmets adapted for tasks and environments within those specific industries. For example, and without limitation, workers in the construction industry may wear “hard” hats to protect against head injuries (e.g., from falling debris, loss of balance, etc.). In another example, workers in the firefighting industry may wear “hard” hats that, in addition to protecting against head injuries, are augmented with breathing systems to avoid inhalation of smoke and hazardous gases. In yet another example, workers in the steel industry may wear “hard” hats formed of heat-resistant materials (e.g., fiberglass) that both protect against heat injuries and shield against high temperatures associated with molten steels.

Current hats for industrial use, however, are poorly-suited to provide noticeability for a wearer in environments of little to no illumination, e.g., at night, during foggy or rainy weather, in unlit rooms, behind large equipment, underwater, and so forth. Such noticeability may involve visibility to an observer (e.g., other workers), visibility to an optical system (e.g., a camera), or both. To the extent that these hats even address noticeability, the hats may incorporate passive optical elements that require an external light source for illumination (e.g., reflective tape or paint). However, the use of such elements requires an unobscured line of sight between the hats and their corresponding external light sources. Smoke, airborne dust, fog, rain, and so forth may reduce a performance of the elements by attenuating an intensity of light along the line of sight. But even if the intensity of light is unattenuated, external light sources may be directed to illuminate objects and areas other than a hat. Thus, light reaching the hat may be indirect and reduced in intensity.

To illustrate a representative example of such a situation, FIG. 1 presents a schematic, perspective view of a construction site 100 having workers 102, 114 operating at night. The construction site 100 includes an elevated, mobile light source 104 to illuminate a portion of a roadway 106 and a portion of a bridge 108. The elevated, mobile light source 104 projects light in front of two excavators 110, but in doing so, poorly illuminates an area 112 behind the excavators 110. The area 112 is also obscured by bodies of the excavators 110, and as such, operators in the two excavators 110 have impaired visibility into the area 112. A worker 114 traversing the area 112 (see arrow 116) risks being unseen, even if wearing a hat 118 with a passive optical element 120. Should one or both excavators 110 move backwards or rotate, the worker 114 could be struck and suffer bodily injury. However, such risks could be mitigated if the hat 118 incorporates an active light source to illuminate one or more of its exterior surfaces. By improving the noticeability of the hat 118, the visibility of the worker 114 thus improves, even though the area 112 has poor illumination and is partially obscured.

The embodiments described herein relate to apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat by illuminating an exterior surface of the hat. In one aspect, an apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat includes a light source configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The apparatus also includes a mount coupled to the light source and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. The mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light source to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat. The apparatus additionally includes a battery receptacle electrically-coupled to the light source that includes electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries.

The embodiments described herein also relate to hats having improved noticeability by including a light source to illuminate an exterior surface of the hats. In one aspect, a hat having improved noticeability includes an exterior surface that is visible when the hat is worn. The hat also includes a light source coupled to the hat and configured to illuminate the exterior surface upon receiving electrical energy. A battery receptacle is electrically-coupled to the light source and includes electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat.

The embodiments described herein additionally relate to methods for illuminating an exterior surface of a hat, thereby improving the noticeability of the hat. In one aspect, a method for improving the noticeability of a hat includes producing light from a light source coupled to the hat. The light source is configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The method also includes orienting the light source such that light therefrom illuminates an exterior surface of the hat.

It will be understood that the apparatus, hats, and methods described herein may be applicable to any type of environment, including those associated with construction sites, refineries, oil and natural gas exploration, chemical processing plants, mining, fire prevention and rescue, manufacturing, metal foundries, ports and docks, and harbors. The apparatus, hats, and methods are also applicable in non-industrial settings such in casual and formal dress settings. As such, the apparatus, hats, and methods may be directed towards improving the noticeability of decorative patterns, ornamental features, textures, reflective elements, text, logos, and so forth present on an exterior surface of a hat.

As used herein, the term “hat” refers to any type of covering for a head that includes at least a crown of the head. Non-limiting examples of a “hat” include a beanie, a top hat, a beret, a sombrero, a hard hat, a helmet, a baseball cap, a boater, a knit cap, a fedora, a cowboy hat, a balaclava, a bowler, a garrison hat, a bucket hat, a fruit hat, a Fulani hat, a kepi, an umbrella hat, a flat cap, a fez, a deerstalker, a conical hat, an eight-point cap, and an aviator hat. Other types of “hats” are possible. As used herein, the terms “front”, “left”, “right”, and “rear”—when describing sides of the “hat” and surfaces thereof—refer to sides of the “hat” that align with respective sides of a wearer when the “hat” is worn.

The “hat” may formed of any type of material including biologically-derived materials, plastics, epoxies, metals, and ceramics. Such materials may be solid, woven into fabrics, or combined into composite structures (e.g., a plurality of layers, fibers in a matrix, etc.). Non-limiting examples of biologically-derived materials include leather, silk, wool, jute, cotton, linen, hemp, fleece, rayon, and cashmere. Non-limiting examples of plastics include aramid, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, phenol formaldehydes, and poly(methyl methacrylate). Non-limiting examples of epoxies include cured resins based on bisphenol A resin, bisphenol F resin, glycidylamine resin, aliphatic resin, and novolac resin. Non-limiting examples of metals include aluminum and aluminum alloys, steel, titanium and titanium alloys, and magnesium and magnesium alloys. Non-limiting examples of ceramics include graphite, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, SiAlON, A-glass, C-glass, D-glass, E-glass, E-CR-glass, R-glass, and S-glass. The “hat” may also be formed of natural materials, including blends of natural materials with synthetic materials.

Unless otherwise specified, any use of any form of the terms “connect,” “engage,” “couple,” “attach,” or any other term describing an interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the elements and may also include indirect interaction between the elements described. In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to”. Unless otherwise indicated, as used throughout this document, “or” does not require mutual exclusivity.

The various characteristics mentioned above, as well as other features and characteristics described in more detail below, will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art with the aid of this disclosure upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments, and by referring to the accompanying drawings. Other means may be used as well.

Now referring to FIG. 2A, a perspective view is presented of an apparatus 200 for improving the noticeability of a hat, according to an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 2B presents the apparatus 200 of FIG. 2A, but from an opposing viewpoint that shows additional features of the apparatus 200. The apparatus 200 includes a light source 202 configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. To produce such light, the light source 202 may include one or more light-emitting elements 204 capable of converting electrical energy into emissions of electromagnetic radiation. The emissions of electromagnetic radiation can include any wavelength or combination of wavelengths in the visible spectrum (i.e., between about 380-750 nm). However, in some embodiments, other spectrums may be involved (e.g., infrared, ultraviolet, etc.) Non-limiting examples of the one or more light-emitting elements 204 include halogen lamps, incandescent lamps, light-emitting diodes, and fluorescent lamps. The one or more light-emitting elements 204 may be arranged, either individually or in groups, into any type of pattern including rows, columns, and arrays. In FIG. 2A, the light source 200 is depicted as including five light-emitting diodes (204) in a single row. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

The one or more light-emitting elements 204 may include individual elements having an emission of light narrowly distributed around a central wavelength, i.e., a narrow-band emission of light. The narrow-band emission of light may have a full-width half maximum (FWHM) of up to 50 nm. In many embodiments, the FWHM is at least 20 nm but no greater than 30 nm. Non-limiting examples of the narrow-band emission of light include a red emission (i.e., 620 nm≤λ_(central)≤750 nm), a green emission (i.e., 495 nm≤λ_(central)≤570 nm), and a blue emission (i.e., 450 nm≤λ_(central)≤495 nm). Other types of emissions are also possible (e.g., an orange emission, a yellow emission, a violet emission, etc.). For example, and without limitation, the one or more light-emitting elements 204 may include a light-emitting diode having a narrow-band emission of green light centered at 555 nm with a FWHM of about 25 nm.

The one or more light-emitting elements 204 may also include individual elements having an emission of light broadly distributed across a spectrum, i.e., a broad-band emission of light. Non-limiting examples of the broad-band emission of light include a “soft” white light (i.e., 2500 K≤T_(color)≤3000 K), a “warm” white light (i.e., 3500 K≤T_(color)≤4100 K), and a “daylight” white light (i.e., 5000 K≤T_(color)≤6500 K). Other types of broad-band emissions are possible. For example, and without limitation, the one or more light-emitting elements 204 may include an incandescent lamp having a broad-band emission of “warm” white light corresponding to a color temperature of 2700K.

In some embodiments, the one or more light-emitting elements 204 include groups of light-emitting elements 204, each configured to produce a specific narrow-band or broad-band emission. In these embodiments, the groups of light-emitting elements 204 may be selectively energized to allow the light source 202 to produce a specific emission (or emissions) of light. For example, and without limitation, the one or more light-emitting elements 204 may include a first group of light-emitting elements 204 configured to emit a red light and a second group of light-emitting elements 204 configured to emit a “soft” white light of 3000K color temperature. The first and second groups may be energized separately such that the light source 202 produces, respectively, the red light or the “soft” white light. The first and second groups may also be energized together to produce a “soft” white light having a strong red component.

In some embodiments, the light source 202 includes at least one of a refractive element (e.g., a lens), a reflective element (e.g., a mirrored surface, a light-scattering surface, etc.), a diffractive element (e.g., a Fresnel lens, a diffractive optic, etc.), and an optically-transmissive element (e.g., a transparent plate, a light pipe, etc.). In FIG. 2A, each of the light-emitting elements 204 is disposed behind an elliptical lens 206 formed into a transparent plate 208. The elliptical lens 206 spreads light received from a corresponding light-emitting element 204 into a broader distribution of light. Such spreading may allow the light source 202 to better and more-uniformly illuminate the hat, especially in embodiments where the light-emitting elements 204 correspond to efficient, but highly-concentrated sources of light (e.g., light-emitting diodes). The elliptical lenses 206, the transparent plate 208, or both, may also protect the one or more light-emitting elements 204 from contamination (e.g., dust, dirt, water, mud, etc.) and contact with exterior objects (e.g., abrasion, impact, cuts, etc.).

Optical elements, such as those disclosed above, may allow the light source 202 define a distribution of light projected from the one of more light-emitting elements 204. The distribution of light may be any spatial distribution of light and may involve intensity distributions within the spatial distributions of light. Non-limiting examples of the distribution of light include a uniform distribution, a gradient distribution, and a patterned distribution. For the patterned distribution, the optical elements may include a stencil with apertures corresponding to a pattern (e.g., text). In defining the distribution of light, the optical elements may correct for a curvature of one or more surfaces of the hat. This correction may reduce deviations from a desired illumination of the hat, such as a uniform illumination.

The apparatus 200 also includes a mount 210 coupled to the light source 202 and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. The mount 210 may be formed of any type of structural material including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. The mount 210 is operable to secure the light source 202, and in many embodiments, also serves as a housing for components of the apparatus 200. Non-limiting examples of such components include the light-emitting elements and optical elements; batteries and compartments therefor; electrical circuitry, printed circuit boards, and wiring; and electrical-power connectors, indicator lights, informational displays, and user-operated switches. The mount 210 may be matched to a curvature of the hat to keep a distance between the light source 202 and surfaces of the hat constant (or approximately constant). Such matching may also reduce a protrusion of the mount 210 from the hat.

To selectively attach to and detach from the hat, the mount 210 may employ any type of reversible coupling. Non-limiting examples of such reversible couplings include those based on chemical adhesives, magnetic attraction, and mechanical fasteners. For example, and without limitation, the mechanical fasteners can include straps, ties, belts, clips, clasps, buckles, snaps, press studs, screws, draw latches, tension latches, toggle latches, hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), brads, pins, and so forth. The mechanical fasteners can also involve elastic elements, such as straps, bands, or cords, capable of wrapping around or conforming to a shape of the hat. In some embodiments, such as shown FIGS. 2A & 2B, the mount 210 includes a clip 212 configured to insert into an orifice of the hat. The clip 212 is depicted in FIGS. 2A & 2B as a side-release clip with flexible detents 214 capable of locking into the orifice. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. FIG. 2C presents an exploded view of the apparatus 200 of FIG. 2A showing a coupling (see projection line) between the clip 212 of the mount 210 and an orifice 216 of a hat 218, according to an illustrative embodiment. The coupling disposes the apparatus 200 adjacent a side of the hat 218. The hat 218 may be a “hard” hat formed of material resistant to impact (e.g., aluminum or an aluminum alloy, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, a glass fiber composite, etc.).

It will be appreciated that the mount 210, when attached to the hat 218, orients the light source 202 to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat 218. In FIG. 2C, the exterior surface of the hat 218 includes a left-side exterior surface 220. However, this depiction is for purposes of illustration only. The exterior surface may include a front-side exterior surface, a left-side exterior surface, a right-side exterior surface, a rear-side exterior surface, or any combination thereof. It will also be appreciated that the mount 210 enhances protection of the light source 202 by orienting the light source 202 inward towards the hat 218. This protection may involve protection from objects in an ambient environment of the apparatus 200, such as mud, water, abrasive surfaces, sharp edges, impacts, and so forth.

The mount 210 controls a direction of illumination from the light source 202, which involves controlling a position and orientation of individual light-emitting elements 204 (and respective optical elements if present). For example, and without limitation, the mount 210 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C cants the light source 202 relative to the exterior surface. Such canting may allow the light source 202 to increase a vertical illumination of the hat 218, and may additionally improve a uniformity of such illumination. The mount 210 also disposes the one or more light-emitting elements 204 along a curvature matching that of the left-side exterior surface 220. The curvature keeps the one or more light-emitting elements 204 a constant distance from the left-side exterior surface 220. The curvature may thus improve a uniformity of illumination along a circumferential direction around the hat 218.

The apparatus 200 additionally includes a battery receptacle 222 electrically coupled to the light source 202 and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. The battery receptacle 222 may be disposed within the mount 210, such as depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. Other locations are possible for the battery receptacle 222. For example, and without limitation, the battery receptacle 222 may be a separate component coupled to the mount 210 via chemical adhesive, magnetic attraction, mechanical fasteners, melt bonding, and so forth. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 222 can selectively attach to and detach from the mount 210. In these embodiments, the battery receptacle 222 may be a replaceable battery receptacle. A replaceable battery receptacle may allow damaged or degraded battery receptacles to be exchanged for properly-functioning battery receptacles.

The battery receptacle 222 may be configured for any size battery, including custom-sized batteries and standard-sized batteries (e.g., AA, AAA, AAAA, C, D, A23, 9 Volt, CR2032, LR44, etc.). Custom-sized batteries may reduce a bulk of the battery receptacle 222, which in turn, may reduce a volume occupied by the apparatus 200. The battery receptacle 222 may be configured for any type of battery, including primary (or non-rechargeable) and secondary (or rechargeable) batteries. Non-limiting examples of primary batteries include alkaline batteries and zinc-carbon batteries. Non-limiting examples of secondary batteries include silver-zinc batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 222 includes the one or more batteries.

In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 222 allows the one or more batteries to be selectively inserted into and removed from the apparatus 200. For example, and without limitation, the battery receptacle 222 may include a detachable wall 224 covering an opening of a cavity (e.g., a slideable door). The detachable wall 224 facilitates removal of the one or more batteries from the apparatus 200 (e.g., for replacement or recharging). In other embodiments, the battery receptacle 222 is sealed such that the one or more batteries are non-removable. In these embodiments, the one or more batteries may have a limited number of charge-discharge cycles before the apparatus 200 becomes inoperable. For example, and without limitation, the one or more batteries may include secondary batteries that degrade rapidly after 100 charge-discharge cycles. This degradation may prevent the secondary batteries from supplying sufficient electrical energy to the apparatus 200 after 100 charge-discharge cycles. In another non-limiting example, the one or more batteries may correspond to primary batteries that irreversibly deplete after one charge-discharge cycle. It will be appreciated that, in embodiments where the battery receptacle 222 cannot be replaced and includes batteries limited to less than 20 charge-discharge cycles, the apparatus 200 may correspond to a “disposable” apparatus.

Electrical coupling of the battery receptacle 222 to the light source 202 may occur through an electrical circuit, which includes the electrical contacts of the battery receptacle 222. The electrical circuit is configured for voltages and currents of the one or more batteries. Moreover, the electrical circuit may electrically arrange the one or more batteries in a series configuration, a parallel configuration, or some combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the electrical circuit is configured such that the battery receptacle 222 can accept both primary and secondary batteries, but not in intermixed groups.

In many embodiments, the apparatus 200 includes a switch 226 configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 222 to the light source 202. The switch 226 serves as part of the electrical circuit and regulates a voltage, a current, or both, received by the light source 202. The switch 226 may be a binary-type switch capable of transitioning between an “on” state, where electrical energy flows to the light source 202, and an “off” state, where no electrical energy flows to the light source 202. Non-limiting examples of the binary-type switch include toggle switches, push-button switches, and knife switches. Alternatively, the switch 226 may be a dimmer-type switch that, upon transitioning from an “on” state and an “off” state, progressively decreases (or increases) a magnitude of electrical energy flowing to the light source 202. Non-limiting examples of the dimmer-type switch include rotary switches and sliding switches. In some embodiments, the switch 226—whether a binary-type switch or a dimmer-type switch—is configured to selectively activate groups of light-emitting elements 204. Such groups may be associated with a characteristic, such as a location on the mount 218, an orientation on the mount 218, an emission type, a color of emission, and so forth. Groups of light-emitting elements 204 based on other characteristics are possible.

In embodiments where the battery receptacle 222 is capable of accepting secondary batteries, the apparatus 200 may optionally include a charging circuit electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle 222 and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto. The charging circuit may reside within the mount 210, the battery receptacle 222, or some combination thereof. The charging circuit may also have a portion external to the apparatus 200 (e.g., an external AC-to-DC power converter). In some embodiments, the charging circuit is entirely external to the apparatus 200. The charging circuit is operable to recharge secondary batteries disposed within the battery receptacle 222, and may be capable of determining a state-of-charge of the secondary batteries, i.e., a percentage of full charge. Such determination may allow the charging circuit to cease supplying electrical energy to the secondary batteries when the state-of-charge reaches about 100%. In some embodiments, the charging circuit includes an indicator (e.g., a series of light-emitting diodes) or informational display (e.g., a liquid crystal display) to indicate the state-of-charge of the secondary batteries.

The charging circuit may include a connector 228 for coupling to an external power source. The connector 228 may correspond to an outer (or “female”) connector. Non-limiting examples of the connector 228 include a USB port (e.g., Micro, Mini, Type-C, etc.), a two-pin connector, and a barrel connector. The connector 228 may be protected via a cover 230 from dust, dirt, and contact with exterior objects. In FIG. 2A, the cover 230 is depicted as a flexible flap coupled to the mount 210. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

The charging circuit may be configured to electrically-couple the apparatus 200 to an AC power source, a DC power source, or both. Such coupling may occur through a physical connection (e.g., mating connectors) or wirelessly (e.g., magnetic coupling, capacitive coupling, etc.). Non-limiting examples of the AC power source include wall outlets associated with 120 VAC and 240 VAC “mains” power lines. Non-limiting examples of the DC power source include USB ports (e.g., in cars, computers, etc.), receptacles for lighting cigarettes, and portable solar panels. In some embodiments, the charging circuit is configured to be a DC circuit. In further embodiments, the connector 228 allows the charging circuit to selectively couple to and de-couple from an external AC-to-DC power converter, such as a switching-mode power supply. The external AC-to-DC power converter may be portable so that a user can easily transport and store the external AC-to-DC power converter. It will be appreciated that, by keeping circuitry associated with the external AC-to-DC power converter separate from the apparatus 200, the charging circuit may occupy less volume in the apparatus 200. The charging circuit may also add less weight to the apparatus 200.

In some embodiments, the apparatus 200 includes a photovoltaic device coupled to the mount 210. The photovoltaic device may be any type of electric device configured to receive light and convert such light into electrical energy. In many embodiments, the photovoltaic device includes one or more photovoltaic elements electrically-coupled in series, in parallel, or some combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of such photovoltaic elements include amorphous silicon photodiodes, polycrystalline silicon photodiodes, monocrystalline silicon photodiodes, cadmium telluride photodiodes, and copper indium gallium arsenide (CIGS) photodiodes. The photovoltaic device may be electrically-coupled to the light source 202, the battery receptacle 222, or both. In some embodiments, the photovoltaic device is electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle 222 through the charging circuit (i.e., electrically-coupled to the charging circuit). In some embodiments, the photovoltaic device includes a control switch to selectively activate and deactivate the photovoltaic device.

FIG. 2D presents a perspective view of the apparatus 200 of FIG. 2B, but having a photovoltaic device 232 coupled to the mount 210, according to an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 2D depicts the photovoltaic device 232 as having seven photovoltaic elements 234 arranged in a row. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. The photovoltaic device 232 may have any number and arrangement of photovoltaic elements 234. The mount 210, when attached to the hat 218, orients the photovoltaic device 232 to receive light from an ambient environment of the hat 218. The photovoltaic device 232 may be disposed onto any location of the apparatus 200, provided the location allows light external to the apparatus 200 to be received by the photovoltaic device 232. The photovoltaic device 232 may include a control switch. In FIG. 2D, the control switch is disposed behind the detachable wall 224 of the battery receptacle 222 and is operable to selectively activate and deactivate the photovoltaic device 232.

During deployment, a user of the apparatus 200 attaches the mount 210 to the hat 218, which may involve inserting the clip 212 into the orifice 216 of the hat 218. The clip 212 may lock to the hat 218 via the flexible detents 214. If the hat 218 has multiple orifices, the user may attach one instance of the apparatus 200 per orifice in any combination as desired. For example, and without limitation, one instance of the apparatus 200 may be attached to each of a left side and a right side of the hat 218. After attachment, the user of the apparatus 200 may don the hat 218, becoming a wearer of the hat 218 with the apparatus 200 coupled thereto.

Upon entering an area of little to no illumination, the user (or wearer) may choose to energize the light source 202. To energize the light source 202, the user actuates the switch 226 to the “on” state, which allows electrical energy to flow from the battery receptacle 222 to the light source 202. In response, the light source 202 produces light. If the switch 226 is a dimmer-type switch, the user may adjust an intensity of light produced by the light source 202. The mount 210 orients the light source 202 such that light therefrom projects onto the exterior surface of the hat 218. Projection of light onto the exterior surface of the hat 218 illuminates the hat 218, thereby improving its noticeability and that of the wearer.

When illumination of the hat 218 no longer desired, the user may de-energize the light source 202 by actuating the switch 226 to the “off” state. In this state, the user may choose to leave the apparatus 200 attached to the hat 218. However, in certain situations, such as those associated with battery replacement or recharging, the user may desire to detach the apparatus 200 from the hat 218. In these situations, the flexible detents 214 of the clip 212 may be displaced inward to unlock the mount 210 from the orifice 216 of the hat 218. The apparatus 200 may then be detached from the hat 218 by lifting the clip 212 out of the orifice 216.

During use of the apparatus 200, the light source 202 may deplete the one or more batteries such that insufficient electrical energy is stored therein (e.g., insufficient to energize the light source 202). Replacement of the one or more batteries is facilitated by removing the detachable wall 224 from the mount 210, which provides access to the battery receptacle 222 and the one or more batteries therein. However, if the one or more batteries correspond to secondary batteries, the user may choose instead to recharge the one or more batteries by energizing the charging circuit. Energizing the charging circuit may involve opening the cover 230 to expose the connector 228. The connector 228 is then coupled to a source of electrical energy. For example, and without limitation, the connector 228 may be coupled to an AC-to-DC power converter, which in turn, is plugged into a wall outlet supplying 120 VAC electrical power. In another non-limiting example, the connector 228 may be coupled to a DC-to-DC power converter, which in turn, is plugged into a cigarette-lighting receptacle of a vehicle. Once the one or more batteries are recharged to a level desired by the user, the charging circuit is de-energized by de-coupling the source of electrical energy from the connector 228 and closing the cover 230.

If the photovoltaic device 232 is present, the photovoltaic device 232 may be used to convert light from an ambient environment of the apparatus 200 into electrical energy. The ambient environment may correspond to that when the apparatus 200 is attached to the hat 218, or alternatively, to that when the apparatus 200 is detached from the hat 218. It will be appreciated that the photovoltaic device 232 may be used to recharge the one or more batteries when such batteries are secondary batteries. This recharging may postpone or eliminate a need to receive electrical energy from a direct source (e.g., a wall outlet, a portable solar panel, a cigarette-lighting receptacle, etc.). The photovoltaic device 232 may operate collectively with the charging circuit to recharge the one of more batteries. For example, and without limitation, the user may walk around in sunlight with the hat 218 donned and the apparatus 200 coupled thereto. Light received by the photovoltaic device 232 is converted into electrical energy, which in turn, is received by the charging circuit. The charging circuit manipulates the received electrical energy to produce an output voltage, an output current, or both, suitable for recharging the one or more batteries. Thus, during walking, the one or more batteries may charge sufficiently that use of the apparatus 200 can continue into nightfall without requiring recharging by a direct source of electrical energy.

Now referring to FIG. 3A, a perspective view is presented of an apparatus 300 for improving the noticeability of a hat, but in which the apparatus 300 is configured to illuminate a circumferential area around the hat, according to an illustrative embodiment. The apparatus 300 includes a plurality of light sources 302 configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. In FIG. 3A, the plurality of light sources 302 is depicted as nine light sources 302. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. Each light source 302 may have one or more light-emitting elements for producing light. FIG. 3B presents an enlarged, perspective view of an individual light source 302 of the apparatus 300 of FIG. 3A, according to an illustrative embodiment. The individual light source 302 includes a strip light-emitting diode 304 disposed behind a curved, hemispherical lens 306. The strip light-emitting diode 304 functions as a light-emitting element for the individual light source 302 and the curved, hemispherical lens 306 corresponds to a refractive element. Although FIG. 3B depicts only a single light-emitting element (i.e., a single strip light-emitting diode 304), this depiction is not intended as limiting. Other numbers of light-emitting elements are possible for the individual light source 302.

Now turning back to FIG. 3A, the apparatus 300 also includes a mount 308 coupled to the plurality of light sources 302 and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. The mount 308 includes a circumferential member 310 configured to encircle a perimeter of the hat. To attach to and detach from the hat, the mount 308 includes a plurality of hooks 312, each coupled to the circumferential member 310 through an elastic element 314. The plurality of hooks 312 are configured to couple to a portion of the hat, such as a brim of the hat. Upon doing so, the elastic elements 314 stretch, and due to tensile forces therein, pull the mount 310 against the hat (e.g., against the brim). It will be appreciated that the plurality of hooks 312 are disposed around the circumferential member 310 such that tensile forces in the elastic elements 314 are symmetric about the hat (i.e., the tension forces balance). FIG. 3C presents a perspective view of the apparatus 300 of FIG. 3A attached to a hat 316, according to an illustrative embodiment. Unlike the hat 218 of FIG. 2C, the hat 316 of FIG. 3C lacks any orifices for the mount 308 to selectively attach to and detach from the hat 316. The apparatus 300 is attached to the hat 316 via a brim 318, and more specifically, by coupling the plurality of hooks 312 around an edge of the brim 318.

The mount 308, when attached to the hat 316, orients the plurality of light sources 302 to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat 316. Due to circumferential placement of the plurality of light sources 302, the exterior surface includes a band encircling the hat 316. The plurality of light sources 302, when energized, may illuminate the band continuously along its circumference. Such continuous illumination is aided by the curved, hemispherical lenses 306, which broaden a distribution of light produced by each strip light-emitting diode 304. It will be understood, however, that the plurality of light sources 302 is not restricted to continuous illumination of the band. The plurality of light sources 302 may be configured such that the band is illuminated discontinuously, i.e., illuminated portions separated by unilluminated or poorly-illuminated portions. For example, and without limitation, the plurality of light sources 302 could correspond to three light sources, one disposed adjacent each of a front-side exterior surface, a left-side exterior surface, and a right-side exterior surface. Portions of the band centered between the three light sources, especially at a rear-side exterior surface, would receive reduced (or no) illumination relative to portions immediate adjacent to the three light sources.

The apparatus 300 additionally includes a battery receptacle 320 electrically-coupled to the plurality of light sources 302 and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. Electrical coupling of the battery receptacle 320 to the plurality of light sources 302 may occur through an electrical circuit, which includes the electrical contacts of the battery receptacle 320. In FIG. 3A, such electrical coupling occurs through the circumferential member 310 via conductive wiring, such as an electrical wiring harness or a flexible printed circuit board. The conductive wiring functions as part of the electrical circuit and may be embedded within the circumferential member 310.

Unlike battery receptacle 222 of FIGS. 2A-2C, which is incorporated within mount 210, the battery receptacle 320 of FIGS. 3A-3C is external to (or separate from) mount 308. In such configurations, the battery receptacle 320 may be permanently coupled to the mount 308, e.g., through chemical adhesive, mechanical fasteners, melt bonding, and so forth. Alternatively, the battery receptacle 320 may be selectively attached to and detached from the mount 308 (e.g., via snaps, screws, straps, hook and loop fasteners, pairs of magnets, etc.). In such alternate configurations, the battery receptacle 320 may correspond to a “hot-swappable” unit capable of replacement by another battery receptacle, e.g., one having fully-charged batteries. Such “hot-swap” capability may also be useful in situations where the battery receptacle 320 becomes damaged, i.e., the battery receptacle 320 can be replaced without replacing the entire apparatus 300.

The apparatus 300 includes a switch 322 configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 320 to the plurality of light sources 302. The apparatus 300 also includes a photosensor 324 configured to measure an intensity of light in an ambient environment of the apparatus 300 (or the hat 316). The photosensor 324 is operable to regulate the flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 320 to the plurality of light sources 302 in response to the measured intensity of light. The photosensor 324 may serve as part of the electrical circuit and may be disposed on any outward-facing surface of the apparatus 300. Non-limiting examples of the photosensor 324 include a photodiode, a photoresistor, and a phototransistor. Although FIG. 3A depicts the apparatus 300 as having both the switch 322 and the photosensor 324, this depiction is not intended as limiting. In some embodiments, the apparatus 300 includes only the switch 322. In other embodiments, the apparatus 300 includes only the photosensor 324.

In embodiments where both the switch 322 and the photosensor 324 are present, the photosensor 324 may regulate the flow of electrical energy within bounds set by the switch 322. For example, and without limitation, the switch 322 may be a binary-type switch having an “on” state and an “off” state. In the “on” state, the switch 322 allows the battery receptacle 320 to produce a flow of electrical energy corresponding to a maximum possible flow given an instant state-of-charge in the one or more batteries. The photosensor 324 then regulates this flow of electrical energy in response to measuring the intensity of light. In the “off” state, the switch 322 blocks the flow of electrical energy to the plurality of light sources 302 and the photosensor 324 is disabled. In another non-limiting example, the switch 322 may be a dimmer-type switch that selectively sets a “cap” on the flow of electrical energy. The “cap” represents an upper limit that is equal to or less than the maximum possible flow given the instant state-of-charge in the one or more batteries. The photosensor 324 regulates the flow of electrical energy, but within a bound from zero up to and including the “cap” set by the switch 322. In the “off” state, the switch 322 blocks the flow of electrical energy to the plurality of light sources 302 and the photosensor 324 is disabled.

In some embodiments, the photosensor 324 includes a sensitivity selector 326 to alter a sensitivity of the photosensor 324 to light. Non-limiting examples of the sensitivity selector 326 include a rotary dial, a multi-position toggle, and a slide. The sensitivity selector 326 may set a lower limit, an upper limit, or both, of light intensity that the photosensor 324 responds to. In some embodiments, the photosensor 324 includes a control switch 328 to activate or deactivate the photosensor 324. In these embodiments, the control switch 328 may be operable to bypass the photosensor 324 on the electrical circuit.

During operation, the photosensor 324 may dynamically alter an illumination of the exterior surface (e.g., the band) in response to measurements of ambient light. Such alteration can occur without intervention of the wearer and may ensure that the plurality of light sources 302 illuminates the exterior surface with an intensity of light commensurate to the ambient light. For example, and without limitation, if the apparatus 300 leaves a brighter environment and enters a darker environment, the photosensor 324 may increase the flow of electrical energy to the plurality of light sources 302, thereby increasing an intensity of light produced therefrom. Conversely, if the apparatus 300 leaves a darker environment and enters a brighter environment, the photosensor 324 may decrease the flow of electrical energy to the plurality of light sources 302, thereby decreasing an intensity of light produced therefrom. Such dynamic alteration may reduce an unnecessary consumption of electrical energy by the plurality of light sources 302, especially if ambient lighting conditions change frequently.

In FIGS. 2A-3C, the light sources 202, 302 are configured to illuminate their respective hats 218, 316 directly. However, the embodiments of FIGS. 2A-3C are not intended as limiting. In general, a light source may utilize optical elements such that an apparatus, when attached to a hat, illuminates an exterior surface of a hat directly, indirectly, or both. For example, and without limitation, the light source may utilize a mirror or light pipe to direct light out of the apparatus from an internal light-emitting element that lacks direct line-of-sight to an exterior surface of a hat. The internal light-emitting element thus illuminates the hat indirectly via the mirror or light pipe.

As used herein, the term “indirect”, when describing illumination, refers to illumination by a light source whose position, orientation, or both, precludes a direct line-of-sight to a desired exterior surface of a hat. Optical elements may be used to guide light from the light source to the exterior surface, which may involve a change in direction of the light. Non-limiting examples of such optical elements include a refractive element (e.g., a lens), a reflective element (e.g., a mirrored surface, a light-scattering surface, etc.), a diffractive element (e.g., a Fresnel lens, a diffractive optic, etc.), and an optically-transmissive element (e.g., a transparent plate, a light pipe, etc.). Other types of optical elements are possible.

FIG. 4A presents a perspective view of an apparatus 400 for improving the noticeability of a hat and having a light source 402 configured to indirectly illuminate the hat, according to an illustrative embodiment. The light source 402 is configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy and includes an optically-transmissive element 404 having a light-emitting element 406 at each end 408. In FIG. 4A, the optically-transmissive element 404 corresponds to a light pipe and the light-emitting elements 406 correspond to light-emitting diodes. However, this configuration is not intended as limiting. The optically-transmissive element 404 is capable of guiding light along a longitudinal axis thereof (e.g., by internal reflection), and may be formed of optically-transmissive material. Non-limiting examples of optically-transmissive material include silica glass, phosphate glass, fluoride glass, polystyrene polymer, polycarbonate polymer, poly(methyl methacrylate) polymer, or poly(ethylene terephthalate) polymer. The light-emitting elements 406 are optically-coupled to ends of the light pipe, such as via direct contact, optical grease, or optical epoxy. Other types of optical coupling are possible.

A mount 410 is coupled to the light source 402 and configured to selectively attach to and detach from a hat. The optically-transmissive element 404 is seated within a circumferential member 412 of the mount 410 and the light-emitting elements 406 are disposed adjacent ends 408 of the optically-transmissive element 404 on the circumferential member 412. FIG. 4B presents an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the optically-transmissive element 404 seated within the mount 410, according to an illustrative embodiment. The optically-transmissive element 404 includes a first surface 414 mated against the mount 410 and a second surface 416 disposed opposite the first surface 414. In many embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 4B, the first surface 414 is optically-coupled to a reflective element 418, such as a thin metallic layer serving as a mirror (e.g., a thin layer of aluminum). The reflective element 418 is disposed between the optically-transmissive element 404 and the mount 410 and may prevent light from being absorbed within the mount 410. In some embodiments, the optically-transmissive material of the optically-transmissive element 404 includes a plurality of light-scattering centers disposed therein. The plurality of light-scattering centers may be particles or inclusions having an index of refraction different than that of the optically-transmissive material. For example, and without limitation, the optically-transmissive material may be a phosphate glass and the light-scattering centers may be particles of titanium dioxide. In another non-limiting example, the optically-transmissive material may be an amorphous matrix of poly(ethylene terephthalate) and the light-scattering centers may be crystallized inclusions of poly(ethylene terephthalate).

The mount 410, when attached to the hat, orients the light source 402 to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat. FIG. 4C presents a perspective view of the apparatus 400 of FIG. 4A attached to a hat 420, according to an illustrative embodiment. Due to a circumferential configuration of the light source 402, the exterior surface corresponds to a band 422 encircling the hat 420. The light source 402, when energized, illuminates the band 422 continuously along its circumference. It will be appreciated that the band 422 may include features for illumination, such as decorative patterns, ornamental features, textures, reflective elements, text, logos, and so forth. In FIG. 4C, the band 422 is depicted as having reflective lettering 424. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

Now turning back to FIG. 4A, the mount 410 may include one or more pairs of pins 426 and clasps 428 (or clutches) for attaching to and detaching from the hat 420. The pins 426 are integral to the mount 410 and the clasps 428 include orifices mated to receive shafts of the pins 426. A battery receptacle 430 of the apparatus 400 may also have one or more pairs of pins 426 and clasps 428 for securing the apparatus 400 to the hat 420. Although FIG. 4A depicts the apparatus 400 as having five pairs of pins 426 and clasps 428, this depiction is not intended as limiting. Other numbers and locations of pins 426 and clasps 428 are possible.

The apparatus 400 includes the battery receptacle 430, which is electrically-coupled to the light source 402 and has electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. Electrical coupling of the battery receptacle 430 to the light source 402 may occur through an electrical circuit, which includes the electrical contacts of the battery receptacle 430. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 430 allows the one or more batteries to be selectively inserted into and removed from the apparatus 400. For example, and without limitation, the battery receptacle 430 may include a detachable wall 432 covering an opening of a cavity (e.g., a slideable door). The detachable wall 432 facilitates removal of the one or more batteries from the apparatus 400 (e.g., for replacement or recharging).

In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 4A, the battery receptacle 430 is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the mount 410. In this configuration, the battery receptacle 430 may correspond to a “hot-swappable” unit. The apparatus 400 may include one or more pairs of electrical connectors to allow attachment and detachment of the battery receptacle 430. The one or more pairs of electrical connectors are integral to the electrical circuit and each pair has a first electrical connector mated to fit a second electrical connector. The first and second electrical connectors may share a common number of electrical contacts. Each electrical contact in the first electrical connector includes a respective mating electrical contact in the second electrical connector. In FIG. 4A, two pair of electrical connectors (not shown) are disposed between each of the light-emitting elements 406 and the battery receptacle 430. For each pair, a first electrical connector is associated with the light-emitting elements 406 and a second electrical connector is associated with the battery receptacle 430.

In many embodiments, the apparatus 400 includes a switch 434 configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 430 to the light source 402. The switch 434 serves as part of the electrical circuit and regulates a voltage, a current, or both, received by the light source 402. In FIG. 4A, the switch 434 is depicted as a rotary-dial switch capable of progressively increasing or decreasing a magnitude of electrical energy flowing to light source 402 (i.e., a dimmer-type switch).

During deployment, a user of the apparatus 400 attaches the mount 410 to the hat 420, which involves manipulating the pins 426 and clasps 428. To do so, the user presses the pins 426 through material of the hat 420, such as a layer of woven fabric or leather, thus puncturing the hat 420. Individual clasps 428 are then slipped over portions of individual shafts protruding through the hat 420. A friction fit between orifices of the clasps 428 and their respective shafts maintains coupling between each pair of pins 426 and clasps 428. In such coupling, the hat 420 has material sandwiched between each pair of pins 426 and clasps 428. After attachment of the mount 410, the user of the apparatus 400 may don the hat 420, becoming a wearer of the hat 420 with the apparatus 400 attached thereto.

Upon entering an area of little to no illumination, the user (or wearer) may choose to energize the light source 402. To energize the light source 402, the user actuates the switch 434 to the “on” state, thereby allowing electrical energy to flow from the battery receptacle 430 to the light source 402. In response, the light source 402 produces light. The user may adjust an intensity of light produced by the light source 402 by turning the rotary-dial switch 434. Light generated by the light-emitting elements 406 travels along the longitudinal axis of the optically-transmissive element 404, eventually exiting through the second surface 416 to illuminate the exterior surface of the hat 420.

While traversing the optically-transmissive element 404, light from the light-emitting elements 406 may be guided by internal reflection. But to exit through the second surface 416, such light must experience a change in direction. In embodiments having the plurality of light-scattering centers, light interacts with the plurality of light-scattering centers to change direction (i.e., to scatter). Moreover, in embodiments having the reflective element 418, light reaching the first surface 414 is redirected away from the mount 410. Such redirection occurs back into the optically-transmissive element 404, and due to a cross-sectional shape of the reflective element 418, is strongly biased towards the second surface 416. Scattering and redirection of light within the optically-transmissive element 404 may increase an intensity of light exiting the second surface 416, and may also improve a uniformity of exiting light along the longitudinal axis of the optically-transmissive element 404.

It will be appreciated that the light source 402 is particularly effective in creating a broad distribution of light from a light-emitting element 406 that produces highly-concentrated light, such as a light-emitting diode. As such, a lower number of light-emitting elements 406 may be used to illuminate the exterior surface of the hat 420, thus reducing a consumption of electrical energy from the one or more batteries. Such reduced consumption may increase an operational lifetime of the one or more batteries. Such reduced consumption may also decrease a frequency at which the one or more batteries need replacement or recharging.

When attached to the hat 420, the mount 410 orients the light source 402 such that light therefrom projects onto the exterior surface of the hat 420, and in particular, the band 422. Projection of light onto the exterior surface illuminates the hat 420, thereby improving its noticeability and that of the wearer. Projection of the light also highlights features such as decorative patterns, ornamental features, textures, reflective elements, text, logos, and so forth. In FIG. 4C, these features include reflective lettering, i.e., “TEAM”. However, the depiction of FIG. 4C is for purposes of illustration only. When illumination of the hat 420 is no longer desired, the user may actuate the switch 434 into the “off” state.

It will be appreciated that an apparatus need not be restricted to having light sources that are only inward-facing, such as shown in FIGS. 2A-4C. The apparatus may additionally involve one or more light sources that are outward-facing. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a first light source and a second light source, each light source configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The mount, when attached to a hat, orients the first light source to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat and orients the second light source to project light outward from the hat into an ambient environment thereof.

FIG. 5 presents a perspective view of an apparatus 500 for improving the noticeability of a hat, but in which the apparatus 500 includes a second light source 536 that is outward-facing, according to an illustrative embodiment. The apparatus 500 of FIG. 5 may be analogous in many features to the apparatus 200 described in relation to FIGS. 2A-2C. Features common to both FIG. 5 and FIGS. 2A-2C are related via coordinated numerals that differ in increment by three hundred.

The apparatus 500 includes a first light source 502 configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The apparatus 500 additionally includes the second light source 536, which is also configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The second light source 536 includes one or more light-emitting elements, and in many embodiments, includes one or more optical elements. In FIG. 5, the second light source 536 is depicted as having a strip light-emitting diode 538 disposed behind a translucent or frosted plate 540. The translucent or frosted plate 540 may scatter light from the strip light-emitting diode 538, thereby providing a more uniform illumination. The depiction of the second light source 536 in FIG. 5, however, is not intended as limiting. Other configurations of the second light source 536 are possible.

A mount 510 is coupled to the first light source 502 and the second light source 536 and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat. In FIG. 5, the mount 510 is depicted as having a side-release clip 512 with flexible detents 514 capable of locking into an orifice of the hat. The mount 510, when attached to the hat, orients the first light source 502 to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat. The mount 510 also orients the second light source 536 to project light outward from the hat into an ambient environment thereof.

The first light source 502 and the second light source 536 may be electrically-coupled to a battery receptacle, such as via an electrical circuit. During operation, the electrical circuit may distribute separate flows of electrical energy to the first light source 502 and second light source 536, i.e., a first flow of electrical energy to the first light source 502 and a second flow of electrical energy to the second light source 536. In some embodiments, the apparatus 500 includes a switch 526 configured to regulate the first and second flows of electrical energy. In other embodiments, the switch 526 corresponds a first switch configured to regulate only the first flow of electrical energy. In these embodiments, the apparatus 500 includes a second switch configured to regulate the second flow of electrical energy. The first and second switches may be binary-type switches or dimmer-type switches as described in relation to the switches 226, 322 of FIGS. 2A-3C. In some embodiments, the apparatus 500 includes a photosensor configured to regulate the first flow of electrical energy, the second flow of electrical energy, or both, in response to an intensity of light measured in the ambient environment of the apparatus 500 (or hat).

It will also be appreciated that an apparatus may include an outward-facing light source to improve a vision of a wearer. FIG. 6A presents a perspective view of an apparatus 650 having a second light source 652 that is outward-facing and disposed on a front side of a mount 608, according to an illustrative embodiment. The apparatus 650 may have features analogous to the apparatus 300 described in relation to FIGS. 3A-3C. Features common to both the apparatus 650 of FIG. 6A and the apparatus 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C are related via coordinated numerals that differ in increment by three hundred.

The apparatus 650 includes a plurality of first light sources 602 configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The apparatus 650 additionally includes the second light source 652, which is also configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. In FIG. 6A, the second light source 652 is depicted as having an array of light-emitting diodes 654, each light-emitting diode 654 disposed behind an elliptical lens 656. The elliptical lenses 656 are formed into a transparent plate 658.

The mount 608 is coupled to the plurality of first light sources 602 and the second light source 652. The mount 608 is also configured to selectively attach to and detach from a hat. The mount 608 includes a circumferential member 610 configured to encircle a perimeter of the hat. To attach to and detach from the hat, the mount 608 includes a plurality of curved hooks 612, each coupled to the circumferential member 610 through an elastic element 614. The plurality of curved hooks 612 are configured to couple to a portion of the hat, such as a brim of the hat. It will be understood that the mount 610, when attached to the hat, orients the plurality of first light sources 602 to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat and orients the second light source 652 to project light outward from the hat into an ambient environment thereof. Due to circumferential placement of the plurality of first light sources 602, the exterior surface includes a band encircling the hat. The second light source 652, by virtue of its front-side position, is operable to illuminate the ambient environment in front of the hat. Such illumination may improve a vision of a wearer under conditions of otherwise poor or no ambient lighting.

The plurality of first light sources 602 and the second light source 652 are electrically-coupled to a battery receptacle 620, such as via an electrical circuit. During operation, the electrical circuit may distribute separate flows of electrical energy to the plurality of first light sources 602 and second light source 652, i.e., a first flow of electrical energy to the plurality of first light sources 602 and a second flow of electrical energy to the second light source 652. The apparatus 600 includes a first switch 622 configured to regulate the first flow of electrical energy and a second switch 660 configured to regulate the second flow of electrical energy. The first and second switches 622, 660 may be binary-type switches or dimmer-type switches as described in relation to switches 226, 322 of FIGS. 2A-3C. In FIG. 6A, the first switch 622 and the second switch 660 are depicted as, respectively, a push-button switch and a multi-position toggle switch. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

It will be additionally appreciated that an apparatus may include a plurality of outward-facing lights. FIG. 6B presents a perspective view of an apparatus 670 having a plurality of second light sources 672 that are outward-facing and disposed on a circumferential member 610 of a mount 608, according to an illustrative embodiment. The apparatus 670 may have features analogous to the apparatus 300 described in relation to FIGS. 3A-3C. Features common to both that apparatus 670 of FIG. 6B and the apparatus 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C are related via coordinated numerals that differ in increment by three hundred.

The apparatus 670 includes a plurality of first light sources 602 configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The apparatus 670 additionally includes the plurality of second light sources 672, which are also configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. In FIG. 6B, each of the plurality of second light sources 672 is depicted as a strip light-emitting diode 674 disposed behind a curved, hemispherical lens 676 (see also enlarged view of FIG. 6C).

The mount 608 is coupled to the plurality of first and second light sources 602, 672 and is configured to selectively attach to and detach from a hat. The circumferential member 610 of the mount 608 encircles a perimeter of the hat when the apparatus 670 is coupled thereto. To attach to and detach from the hat, the mount 608 includes a plurality of curved hooks 612, each coupled to the circumferential member 610 through an elastic element 614. The plurality of curved hooks 612 is configured to couple to a portion of the hat, such as a brim of the hat. It will be understood that the mount 610, when attached to the hat, orients the plurality of first light sources 602 to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat. The mount 610 also orients the plurality of second light sources 672 to project light outward from the hat into an ambient environment thereof. Due to circumferential placement of the plurality of first light sources 602, the exterior surface includes a band encircling the hat. During operation, illumination of the band by the plurality of first light sources 602 may be complemented by circumferential illumination from the plurality of second light sources 672, which is directed into the ambient environment.

A switch 622 is configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from a battery receptacle 620 to the plurality of first and second light sources 602, 672. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 6B, the apparatus 670 includes a photosensor 624 configured to additionally regulate the flow of electrical energy in response to an intensity of light measured in the ambient environment of the apparatus (or hat). The photosensor 624 may include a sensitivity selector 626 to alter a sensitivity of the photosensor 624 to light, and may also include a control switch 628 to activate or deactivate the photosensor 624.

In FIGS. 2A-6C, the apparatus are depicted as units separate from a hat. However, the apparatus may have portions integral to the hat, and in some embodiments, may be integrated entirely within the hat. Non-limiting examples of portions that can be integrated into the hat include a light source, a mount, a battery receptacle, one or more batteries, a switch, a photosensor, an electrical circuit, a recharging circuit, and a photovoltaic device. Other portions are possible. Some portions, although integral to the hat, may be configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat (e.g., a battery receptacle). Selective attachment and detachment may facilitate replacement of such portions in an event of failure, damage, or depletion.

Now referring to FIG. 7A, an exploded view, shown in perspective, is presented of a hat 700 having improved noticeability, according to an illustrative embodiment. The hat 700 may be a “hard” hat formed of material resistant to impact (e.g., aluminum or an aluminum alloy, polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, a glass fiber composite, etc.). The hat 700 includes an exterior surface 702 that is visible when the hat is worn. In FIG. 7A, the exterior surface 702 includes a left-side exterior surface. However, it will be understood that, in general, the exterior surface 702 may include a front-side exterior surface, a rear-side exterior surface, a left-side exterior surface, a right-side exterior surface, or any combination thereof. The hat 700 also includes a light source 704 coupled thereto and configured to illuminate the exterior surface 702 upon receiving electrical energy. In some embodiments, the light source 704 includes at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element. Such elements are analogous to optical elements described in relation to FIGS. 2A-4C.

The hat 700 additionally includes a battery receptacle 706 electrically-coupled to the light source 704 and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. Such electrical coupling may occur through an electrical circuit, which includes the electrical contacts of the battery receptacle 706. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 706 is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat 700. In these embodiments, the battery receptacle 706 may be replaceable (e.g., due to damage, degraded batteries therein, etc.). In FIG. 7A, the battery receptacle 706 is depicted as coupled to an interior surface or the hat 700. FIG. 7A also depicts the electrical circuit as having conductive wiring 708 and a pair of electrical connectors 710, 712. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. Other locations are possible for the battery receptacle 706, and the electrical circuit may have elements different than (or in addition to) the conductive wiring 708 and the pair of electrical connectors 710, 712.

The pair of electrical connectors 710, 712 includes a first electrical connector 710 configured to mate with a second electrical connector 712. FIG. 7B presents an enlarged, perspective view of the second electrical connector 712 of FIG. 7A, according to an illustrative embodiment. The second electrical connector 712 includes a plurality of conductive pins 714 disposed within a shroud 716. The plurality of conductive pins 714 is positioned within the shroud 716 to allow insertion into mating orifices 718 of the first electrical connector 710 (see projection line 720). The mating orifices 718 are formed into a protrusion 722 of the hat 700 and include electrically-conductive contacts therein. The shroud 716 and the protrusion 722 are operable to protect the plurality of conductive pins 714 and the electrically-conductive contacts, respectively, from contact with exterior objects. Such protection may include forming a seal when the pair of electrical connectors 710, 712 is coupled (e.g., via a friction fit, an O-ring, a gasket, etc.).

For recharging secondary batteries, the hat 700 may optionally include a charging circuit electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle 706 and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto. The charging circuit may be capable of determining a state-of-charge of the secondary batteries, i.e., a percentage of full charge. Such determination may allow the charging circuit to cease supplying electrical energy to the secondary batteries when the state-of-charge reaches about 100%. In some embodiments, the charging circuit includes an indicator (e.g., a series of light-emitting diodes) or informational display (e.g., a liquid crystal display) to indicate the state-of-charge of the secondary batteries. The charging circuit may include a connector for coupling to an external power source, which in some embodiments, is integral to the battery receptacle 706. The connector may correspond to an outer (or “female”) connector.

The hat 700 further includes a mount 724 coupling the light source 704 to the hat 700 and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat 700. The mount 724 may be formed of any type of structural material including metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 7A, the mount 724 includes a clip 726 configured to insert into an orifice 728 of the hat 700 (see projection line 730). The clip 726 may be a side-release clip with flexible detents 732 capable of locking into the orifice 728. It will be appreciated that the mount 724 allows instances of the light source 704 to be disposed into any orifice of the hat 700 (e.g., on a left side, a right side, etc.). It will also be appreciated that the mount 724 allows the battery receptacle 706 to be associated with the hat 700 while being physically independent of the light source 704. Thus, the light source 704, via the mount 724, may selectively attach to and detach from the hat 700 without involving the battery receptacle 706. Conversely, in embodiments where the battery receptacle 706 can selectively attach to and detach from the hat 700, the battery receptacle 706 can be removed from the hat 700 without involving the light source 704 (e.g., to replace or recharge the one or more batteries).

The mount 724, when attached to the hat 700, orients the light source 704 to project light onto the exterior surface 702. The mount 724 controls a direction of illumination from the light source 704, which may involve controlling a position and orientation of individual light-emitting elements (and respective optical elements if present). FIG. 7C presents a perspective view of the mount 724 from a viewpoint opposite that shown in FIG. 7A, according to an illustrative embodiment. The mount 724 cants the light source 704 relative to the exterior surface 702. The light source 704 includes a first plurality of light-emitting elements 734 interposed between a second plurality of light-emitting elements 736 to define an alternating sequence. Each light-emitting element 734, 736 is disposed behind a respective barrel-shaped lens 738 formed into a transparent plate 740. Canting of the light source 704 by the mount 724 may increase a vertical illumination of the hat 700, and may additionally improve a uniformity of such illumination. The mount 724 also disposes the light-emitting elements 734, 736 along a curvature matching that of the exterior surface 702 of the hat 700. The curvature keeps the light-emitting elements 734, 736 a constant distance from the exterior surface 702. The curvature may thus improve a uniformity of illumination along a circumferential direction around the hat 700.

In FIG. 7A, the exploded view of the hat 700 emphasizes a left side, while obscuring a right side. However, it will be understood that the hat 700 may include instances of the orifice 728 on both the left side and the right side. Thus, instances of the mount 724 may be selectively attached to or detached from the left side, the right side, or both. In these embodiments, the exterior surface 702 includes at least one of a left-side exterior surface and a right-side exterior surface. However, the depiction of FIG. 7A is not intended as limiting. In general, the mount 724 may be coupled to the hat 700 in any position that allows illumination of an exterior surface of the hat 700. Such coupling may or may not require use of an orifice.

In many embodiments, the hat 700 includes a switch 742 configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 706 to the light source 704. The switch 742 may be a binary-type switch capable of progressively cycling through an “off” state” for the light source 704, a first “on” state for the first plurality of light-emitting elements 734, a second “on” state for the second plurality of light-emitting elements 736, and back to the “off” state for the light source 704. For example, and without limitation, the first plurality of light-emitting elements 734 may have a broad-band emission of light (e.g., a white light) and the second plurality of light-emitting elements 736 may have a narrow-band emission of light (e.g., a green light). In this configuration, the switch 742 allows a user to selectively illuminate the hat 700 as desired (e.g., no light, white light, or green light). Such selective illumination may allow the user to communicate information to one or more observers in addition to improving the noticeability of the hat 700.

Although FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate embodiments in which the mount 724 is separate from the hat 700, these embodiments are not intended as limiting. In other embodiments, a mount may be integral to a hat. FIG. 8 presents a perspective view of a hat 800 having an exterior surface 802 that is visible when the hat is worn, but in which a portion of the hat 800 orients a light source 804 to project light onto the exterior surface 802, according to an illustrative embodiment. The portion of the hat 800 functions analogously to a mount and includes a brim 806. However, unlike a mount, the portion does not selectively attach to or detach from the hat 800.

The light source 804 is coupled to the hat 800 and configured to illuminate the exterior surface 802 upon receiving electrical energy. The light source 804 corresponds to a plurality of light sources 804 disposed around a perimeter of the hat 800. As such, the exterior surface 802 includes a band encircling the hat 800. Each of the plurality of light sources 804 may include one or more light-emitting elements and one or more optical elements. Such elements are analogous to the light-emitting elements and optical elements described in relation to FIGS. 2A-4C. In FIG. 8, each light source 804 is depicted as having a single light-emitting element disposed behind a transparent plate. However, this depiction is for purposes of illustration only. Other numbers, arrangements, and types of light-emitting elements are possible, including other numbers, arrangements, and types of optical elements.

The hat 800 includes a battery receptacle 808 electrically-coupled to the plurality of light sources 804 and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries. Such electrical coupling may occur through an electrical circuit, which includes the electrical contacts of the battery receptacle 808 and may include conductive wiring (e.g., an electrical wiring harness, a flexible printed circuit board, etc.). The conductive wiring may be embedded within the hat 800, such as within the brim 806. FIG. 8 depicts the battery receptacle 808 as disposed on a rear side of the hat 800 and above the brim 806. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. Other locations and configurations of the battery receptacle 808 are possible. For example, and without limitation, the battery receptacle 808 may be coupled to the brim 806. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 808 is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat 800.

In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 8, the exterior surface 802 includes a reflective surface 810. Non-limiting examples of the reflective surface 810 include a mirrored surface, a light-scattering surface (e.g. textured), an iridescent surface, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, the reflective surface 810 is colored via a pigment or a luminescent dye. In further embodiments, the coloring of the reflective surface 810 matches an emission of light from the plurality of light sources 804. For example, and without limitation, the reflective surface 810 may be colored green and the plurality of light sources 804 may emit a narrow-band emission of green light.

In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 8, the plurality of light sources 804 is a first light source and the hat 800 includes a second light source 812. The second light source 812 is electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle 808 and is configured to illuminate an ambient environment of the hat 800 upon receiving electrical energy. Similar to the plurality of light sources 804 (or the first light source), the second light source 812 may include one or more light-emitting elements and one or more optical elements. In FIG. 8, the second light source 812 is disposed on a front side of the hat 800. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. The second light source 812 may be disposed at any position on the hat 800 that allows illumination of the ambient environment. In embodiments having the first and second light sources 804, 812, the hat 800 may include a first switch 814 configured to regulate a first flow of electrical energy to the plurality of light sources 804 (or the first light source). The hat 800 also includes a second switch 816 configured to regulate a second flow of electrical energy to the second light source 812. The first switch 814 and the second switch 816 may be binary-type switches or dimmer-type switches as described in relation to the switches 226, 322 of FIGS. 2A-3C.

In some embodiments, the hat 800 includes a photosensor 818 configured to regulate the first flow of electrical energy, the second flow of electrical energy, or both, in response to an intensity of light measured in the ambient environment of the hat 800. The photosensor 818 may disposed at any position on the hat 800 capable of receiving light from the ambient environment. Accordingly, the hat 800 may include a plurality of photosensors 818. In FIG. 8, the hat 800 is depicted as having two photosensors 818, one each on a left side and a right side of the hat 800. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

In embodiments having the plurality of photosensors 818, the flows of electrical energy may be altered in response to a controlling intensity of light. The controlling intensity of light may correspond to that measured by an individual photosensor or a plurality of photosensors. Non-limiting examples of the controlling intensity of light include a minimum intensity of light, a maximum intensity of light, and an average intensity of light. For example, and without limitation, the photosensor 818 on the left side may experience a temporary increase in ambient light conditions (e.g., light from headlights of an oncoming car). The photosensor 818 on the left side therefore measures an intensity of light higher than the photosensor 818 on the right side. If the controlling intensity corresponds to a maximum intensity of light, the photosensor 818 on the left side governs any alteration in the flow of electrical energy. Conversely, if the controlling intensity corresponds to a minimum intensity of light, the photosensor 818 on the right side governs any alteration in the flow of electrical energy. If the controlling intensity corresponds to an average intensity of light, both photosensors 818 govern the alteration of the flow of electrical energy, i.e., an average of the measured intensities of light is used in any alteration of the flow of electrical energy. It will be appreciated that the controlling intensity of light may allow the hat 800 to improve its noticeability despite different or changing light sources within the ambient environment.

Now referring to FIG. 9A, a schematic diagram is presented of an electronic circuit 900 having a light source 902 electrically-coupled to a battery receptacle 904, according to an illustrative embodiment. The electronic circuit 900 may be analogous to the electronic circuits described in relation the apparatus and hats of FIGS. 2A-8. The light source 902 is configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy and includes one or more light-emitting elements 906 for such purposes. The light source 902 is also configured to illuminate an exterior surface of a hat (e.g., by being coupled to a mount, integrated into a portion of the hat, etc.). The battery receptacle 904 has electrical contacts 908 for coupling to one or more batteries 910. The one or more batteries 910 may be coupled in series, in parallel, or some combination thereof, to supply a voltage, a current, or both, from the battery receptacle 904 to the light source 902 (or the one or more light emitting elements 906). In FIG. 9A, flows of electrical power flow are illustrated using solid or dashed lines with arrows indicating a direction of such flows.

In some embodiments, the battery receptacle 904 (or the electrical circuit 900) includes a pair of electrical connectors 912 for selectively attaching to and detaching from the electrical circuit 900. FIG. 9A depicts the battery receptacle 904 as having two pairs of electrical connectors 912. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting. Other numbers of pairs are possible. The pair of electrical connectors 912 includes a first electrical connector 914 mated to fit a second electrical connector 916. In some embodiments, the first and second electrical connectors 914, 916 share a common number of electrical contacts (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, etc.). In these embodiments, each electrical contact in the first electrical connector 914 includes a respective mating electrical contact in the second electrical connector 916. In some embodiments, the first electrical connector 914 corresponds to an outer (or “female”) connector and the second electrical connector 916 corresponds to an inner (or “male”) connector. It will be appreciated that the pair of electrical connectors 912 may allow the battery receptacle 904 to function as a “hot-swappable” unit.

In many embodiments, the electrical circuit 900 includes a switch 918 configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 904 to the light source 902. The switch 918 is disposed on a segment 920 of the electrical circuit 900 between the battery receptacle 904 and the light source 902. The switch 918 may be a binary-type switch or a dimmer-type switch as described in relation to the switches 226, 322 of FIGS. 2A-3C. The segment 920 may include conductive wiring, such as an electrical wiring harness or a flexible printed circuit board, to electrically couple components disposed on the segment 920.

In some embodiments, the light source 902 may require voltages, currents, or both different than those supplied by the battery receptacle 904. In these embodiments, a DC-to-DC power converter 922 may be optionally disposed on the segment 920 between the battery receptacle 904 and the switch 918. The DC-to-DC power converter 922 is operable to alter at least one of a voltage, a current, or both, supplied by the battery receptacle 904. Non-limiting examples of DC-to-DC power converter 922 include a step-up DC-DC regulator, a DC boost converter, a step-down DC-DC regulator, and a DC buck converter. In some embodiments, the DC-to-DC power converter 922 is integral to the battery receptacle 904.

In some embodiments, the electrical circuit 900 includes a photosensor 924 configured to measure an intensity of light in an ambient environment of the electrical circuit 900 and, in response, regulate the flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle 904 to the light source 902. The ambient environment of the electrical circuit 900 may correspond to an ambient environment of an apparatus or hat as described in relation to FIGS. 2A-8. The photosensor 924 may be disposed on the segment 920 between the switch 918 and the light source 902, and during operation, dynamically alters an illumination of the exterior surface of the hat in response to measurements of ambient light. Such alteration occurs without intervention of a user and may ensure that the light source 902 illuminates the exterior surface with an intensity of light commensurate to the ambient light.

In some embodiments, the electrical circuit 900 includes a charging circuit 926 electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle 904 and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto. The charging circuit 926 allows the electrical circuit 900 to recharge secondary batteries disposed in the battery receptacle 904. Electrical coupling between the charging circuit 926 and the battery receptacle 904 may involve a pair of electrical connectors 912, as shown in FIG. 9A. However, in some embodiments, the charging circuit 926 is integral to the battery receptacle 904. In other embodiments, a portion of the charging circuit 926 is integral to the battery receptacle 904. The charging circuit 926 may include a pair of electrical connectors 912 for electrically-coupling to an external power source. FIG. 9A depicts two such external power sources, i.e., a DC power source 928 and an AC power source 930. One pair of electrical connectors is dedicated to each of the DC power source 928 and the AC power source 930. Dashed arrows indicate uncoupled connections. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

In some embodiments, the charging circuit 926 is configured to be a DC circuit. In further embodiments, the electrical circuit 900 includes an external AC-to-DC power converter 932, such as a switching-mode power supply. The external AC-to-DC power converter 932 may be portable so that a user can easily transport and store the external AC-to-DC power converter 932. It will be appreciated that, by keeping circuitry associated with the external AC-to-DC power converter 932 separate from an upstream portion of the electrical circuit 900, the upstream portion may have a reduced volume, a lower weight, or both. As such, the upstream portion of the electrical circuit 900 may be more easily integrated into an apparatus or hat.

In some embodiments, a photovoltaic device 934 is electrically-coupled to the charging circuit 926. The photovoltaic device 934 is configured to receive light from the ambient environment of the electrical circuit 900 and convert such light into electrical energy. This electrical energy is supplied to the charging circuit 926 and may flow to at least one of the battery receptacle 904 or the light source 902. In some embodiments, a wireless charging device 936 is electrically coupled to the charging circuit. The wireless charging device 936 may be configured to receive electrical energy via magnetic coupling, capacitive coupling, or both. Such electrical energy is supplied to the charging circuit 926 and may flow to at least one of the battery receptacle 904 or the light source 902. It will be appreciated that the photovoltaic device 934 and the wireless charging device 936 may be used to recharge the one or more batteries 910 when such batteries are secondary batteries. Such recharging may postpone or eliminate a need to receive electrical energy from a direct source that is external to the electrical circuit 900.

The electrical circuit 900 may include other components for communicating with a user of an apparatus or a hat, an observer of the apparatus or the hat, other electronic devices or systems, or a combination thereof. FIG. 9B presents a schematic diagram of the electrical circuit 900 of FIG. 9A, but in which the electrical circuit 900 includes a control circuit 938, according to an illustrative embodiment. The control circuit 938 is electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle 904 through a branching segment 940. The branching segment 940 originates at or downstream of the switch 918, which is configured as a binary-type switch. In this configuration, the segment 920 corresponds to a first main segment 920. The switch 918, when actuated, allows electrical energy to flow from the battery receptacle 904 to each of the light source 902 and the control circuit 938. In some embodiments, the DC-to-DC power converter 922 is a first DC-to-DC power converter and the branching segment 940 includes a second DC-to-DC power converter 942. The second DC-to-DC power converter 942 may be operable to receive electrical energy from the first main segment 920 and manipulate such energy to produce a voltage, a current, or both, suitable for the control circuit 938.

The control circuit 938 includes a processor 944 for sending electrical signals to a digital regulator 946. In many embodiments, the processor 944 includes a memory to assist in generating electrical signals. The digital regulator 946 controls a driving voltage, a driving current, or both, experienced by the light-emitting elements 906 of the light source 902. Such control may occur at a resolution that corresponds to individual light-emitting elements 906, groups of light-emitting elements 906, or the light source 902 as a whole. FIG. 9B depicts the digital regulator 946 as controlling the light source 902 as a whole. However, this depiction is not intended as limiting.

During operation, the digital regulator 946 receives electrical signals from the processor 944, and in response, alters driving voltages, the driving currents, or both, for the light-emitting elements 906. Such alteration may allow the control circuit 938 to selectively increase or decrease an intensity of light produced by each light-emitting element 906, groups of light-emitting elements 906, or the light source 902 as a whole. The digital regulator 946 may have an electrical interface that matches an electrical configuration of the light-emitting elements 906 (e.g., a series electrical configuration, a parallel electrical configuration, or some combination thereof). Although the digital regulator 946 is depicted in FIG. 9B as separate from the control circuit 938, in some embodiments, the digital regulator 946 is part (or integral to) of the control circuit 938.

The photosensor 924 may operate collectively with the control circuit 938 to increase or decrease an intensity of light produced the light source 902. In FIG. 9B, the photosensor 924 is disposed on a second main segment 948 of the electrical circuit 900. The second main segment 948 is operable to electrically-couple the battery receptacle 904 to the control circuit 938 and may include a pair of electrical connectors 912. A DC-to-DC power converter (not shown) may be disposed on the second main segment 948 upstream or downstream of the photosensor 924. The DC-to-DC power converter may be operable to receive electrical energy from the battery receptacle 904 (if upstream) or the photosensor 924 (if downstream) and manipulate such energy to produce a voltage, a current, or both, suitable for the control circuit 938.

During operation, the photosensor 924 measures an intensity of light in the ambient environment of the electrical circuit 900 (or apparatus or hat), and in response, alters a voltage, a current, or both, on the second main segment 948. This alteration signals the processor 944 of the control circuit 938 to instruct the digital regulator 946 to alter the driving voltage, the driving current, or both, experienced by the light source 902 (or light-emitting elements 906). For example, and without limitation, the photosensor 924 may decrease a voltage on the second main segment 948, which signals the processor 944, in turn, to instruct the digital regulator 946 to decrease the driving current. The processor 944 thus assists the photosensor 924 in dynamically altering an illumination of the exterior surface of the hat in response to measurements of ambient light conditions.

It will be appreciated that the control circuit 938 and the digital regulator 946 may allow the light source 902 to produce patterns of light, such as flashing lights, changes in emitted color, and so forth. Such patterns may depend on a location, an orientation, a group affiliation, and an emission-type of the light-emitting elements 906. A specific pattern may be determined by the processor 944 based on signals received by the control circuit 938. Patterns of light may be used to communicate with a user of an apparatus or a hat, an observer of the apparatus or the hat, or both. For example, and without limitation, the electric circuit 900 may energize only a portion of the light-emitting elements 906 (i.e., a group) to indicate a state-of-charge of the one or more batteries 910 (e.g., a percent state of charge, impending depletion, etc.). In another non-limiting example, the electronic circuit 900 may include a “panic” button that, when activated, causes the light source 902 to change a color of light emitted therefrom (e.g., from green to red). Such change may alert an observer that the user requires immediate attention (e.g., due to injury). In yet another non-limiting example, the electronic circuit 900 may rapidly cycle an intensity of light on and off. Such cycling may be based on the user entering a controlled location (e.g., an area of operation for equipment) and alert an observer (e.g., an equipment operator) that the user is present in the controlled location. The observer may otherwise be unware of the user's presence.

In some embodiments, the control circuit 938 includes a wireless transceiver 950 electrically-coupled to the processor 944 and configured to convert wireless signals into electrical signals for the processor 944. The wireless signals may be any type of electromagnetic radiation capable of being received by or broadcast from an antenna. For example, and without limitation, the electromagnetic radiation may have one or more frequencies within a wavelength range from 1 kHz to 15 GHz. In some embodiments, the wireless signals conform to a wireless protocol, such as Bluetooth, IEEE 802.15.1, Wi-Fi, IEEE 802.11, WiGig™, Z-Wave, IEEE 802.15.4, and Zigbee protocols. However, other types of wireless protocols are possible. The wireless transceiver 950 may exchange wireless signals with any electronic device or system having a suitably-configured wireless transceiver. Non-limiting examples of such electronic devices or systems include mobile phones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, base stations, routers, repeaters, gateways, and embedded controllers. It will be appreciated that the wireless signals may include information instructing the control circuit 938 to produce a pattern of light with the light source 902 (or light-emitting elements 906).

In some embodiments, the control circuit 938 includes a Global Positioning System receiver 952 (or GPS receiver) electrically-coupled to the processor 944. The GPS receiver 952 is configured to convert a GPS signal from a GPS satellite into electrical signals for the processor 944 that represent positional information, such as a latitude, a longitude, and an altitude of the GPS receiver 952. Other information may also be present, e.g., a time the GPS signal was sent, a name of the GPS satellite, an authentication of the GPS satellite, and so forth. The processor 944 may communicate such information via the wireless transceiver 950 to an electronic device or system, and in return, receive instructions to produce patterns of light. In some embodiments, the electrical circuit 900 also includes a speaker 954 (or buzzer). The speaker 954 (or buzzer) may allow audible information to be communicated to the user, which may also be heard by an observer. For example, if the user enters a controlled location, an audible warning may sound in addition to a pattern of light being produced. In some embodiments, the electrical circuit 900 includes a vibration motor 956. The vibration motor 956 may allow the electrical circuit 900 to alert the user using vibrations or patterns of vibrations (e.g., on-off sequences, alterations in vibration intensity, alterations in vibration frequency, etc.).

According to an illustrative embodiment, a method for improving the noticeability of a hat includes producing light from a light source coupled to the hat. The light source is configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy. The method additionally includes orienting the light source such that light therefrom illuminates an exterior surface of the hat. The exterior surface may include a front-side exterior surface, a left-side exterior surface, a right-side exterior surface, a rear-side exterior surface, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the exterior surface includes at least one of a left-side exterior surface and a right-side exterior surface. In further embodiments, the exterior surface includes at least one of a front-side exterior surface and a rear-side exterior surface. In some embodiments, the exterior surface includes a band encircling the hat.

While orienting the light source, the method may optionally distribute light across the exterior surface using at least one of refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element. The method may also optionally alter an amount of electrical energy received by the light source to alter an intensity of light produced therefrom. Altering the intensity of light may involve altering light produced by an individual light-emitting element, a group of light-emitting elements, or the light source as a whole. Alteration of light produced by the individual or group of light-emitting elements may be based on location, orientation, group affiliation, and emission-type. Other criteria are possible. It will be appreciated that altering the intensity of light may allow the light source to produce a pattern of light. In some embodiments, the amount of electrical energy is altered by a switch (e.g., a binary-type switch, a dimmer-type switch, etc.). In some embodiments, altering the amount of electrical energy includes altering the amount of electrical energy in response to an intensity of ambient light measured by a photosensor.

In some embodiments, the method involves supplying electrical energy to the light source from one or more batteries. The one or more batteries may supply such electrical energy for at least 10 cumulative hours. However, other numbers of cumulative hours are possible (e.g., for at least 12 cumulative hours, for at least 15 cumulative hours, for at least 18 cumulative hours, for at least 21 cumulative hours, etc.) The cumulative hours may correspond to an operational lifetime of the one or more batteries. The one or more batteries may be primary batteries or secondary batteries. In further embodiments, supplying electrical energy includes storing electrical energy in the one or more batteries. The one or more batteries may consist of secondary (or rechargeable) batteries. In still further embodiments, storing electrical energy includes receiving light into a photovoltaic device to produce electrical energy and storing electrical energy so-produced in the one or more batteries.

A light source associated with an apparatus, a hat, and a method of the present disclosure may illuminate an exterior surface of a hat according to an intensity of light. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 20 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 50 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 100 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 150 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 200 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 250 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 500 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 750 lux.

In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 1000 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 750 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 500 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 250 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 200 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 150 lux. In some embodiments, the light source illuminates the exterior surface at an intensity no greater than 100 lux.

It will be understood that the lower and upper limits may be combined in any variation as above to define a range for the intensity. For example, and without limitation, the light source may illuminate the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 100 lux but no greater than 250 lux. In another non-limiting example, the light source may illuminate the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 20 lux but no greater than 150 lux. In yet another non-limiting example, the light source may illuminate the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 250 lux but no greater than 750 lux. Other ranges are possible.

An exterior surface associated with an apparatus, a hat, and a method of the present disclosure may correspond to a percentage of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 20% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 30% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 40% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 50% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 60% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 70% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 80% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to at least 20% of a total exterior surface of the hat.

In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 100% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 90% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 80% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 70% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 60% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 50% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 40% of a total exterior surface of the hat. In some embodiments, the exterior surface corresponds to no greater than 30% of a total exterior surface of the hat.

It will be understood that the lower and upper limits may be combined in any variation as above to define a range for the percentage. For example, and without limitation, the exterior surface may correspond to at least 20% of a total exterior surface of the hat, but no greater than 50% of the total exterior surface of the hat. In another non-limiting example, the exterior surface may correspond to at least 40% of a total exterior surface of the hat, but no greater than 70% of the total exterior surface of the hat. In yet another non-limiting example, the exterior surface may correspond to at least 30% of a total exterior surface of the hat, but no greater than 60% of the total exterior surface of the hat. Other ranges are possible.

A light source associated with an apparatus, a hat, and a method of the present disclosure may convert electrical energy into light according to an electrical conversion efficiency. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 10 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 30 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 50 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 70 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 90 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 110 lumens per watt.

In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency no greater than 130 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency no greater than 110 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency no greater than 90 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency no greater than 70 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency no greater than 50 lumens per watt. In some embodiments, the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency no greater than 30 lumens per watt.

It will be understood that the lower and upper limits may be combined in any variation as above to define a range for the electrical conversion efficiency. For example, and without limitation, the light source may have an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 50 lumens per watt but no greater than 90 lumens per watt. In another non-limiting example, the light source may have an electrical efficiency of at least 70 lumens per watt but no greater than 110 lumens per watt. In yet another non-limiting example, the light source may have an electrical efficiency of at least 70 lumens per watt but no greater than 130 lumens per watt. Other ranges are possible.

A battery receptacle associated with an apparatus, a hat, and a method of the present disclosure may be configured according to a maximum current capacity. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 250 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 750 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 1250 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 1750 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 2250 mA·h.

In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of no greater than 2750 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of no greater than 2250 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of no greater than 1750 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of no greater than 1250 mA·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of no greater than 750 mA·h.

It will be understood that the lower and upper limits may be combined in any variation as above to define a range for the maximum current capacity. For example, and without limitation, the battery receptacle may be configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 250 mA·h but no greater than 750 mA·h. In another non-limiting example, the battery receptacle may be configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 1250 mA·h but no greater than 2250 mA·h. In yet another non-limiting example, the battery receptacle may be configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 750 mA·h but no greater than 1750 mA·h. Other ranges are possible.

The battery receptacle associated with an apparatus, a hat, and a method of the present disclosure may also be configured according to a maximum energy capacity. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 0.5 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 1 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 3 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 5 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 7 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 9 W·h.

In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of no greater than 12 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of no greater than 9 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of no greater than 7 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of no greater than 5 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of no greater than 3 W·h. In some embodiments, the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of no greater than 1 W·h.

It will be understood that the lower and upper limits may be combined in any variation as above to define a range for the maximum energy capacity. For example, and without limitation, the battery receptacle may be configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 1 W·h but no greater than 3 W·h. In another non-limiting example, the battery receptacle may be configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 5 W·h but no greater than 9 W·h. In yet another non-limiting example, the battery receptacle may be configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 0.5 W·h but no greater than 12 W·h. Other ranges are possible.

Although the present invention and its advantages have been disclosed in the context of certain illustrative, non-limiting embodiments, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, permutations, and alterations can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It will be appreciated that any feature that is described in connection to any one embodiment may also be applicable to any other embodiment.

It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. It will further be understood that reference to “an” item refers to one or more of those items.

The steps of the methods described herein may be carried out in any suitable order or simultaneous where appropriate. Where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and addressing the same or different problems.

It will be understood that the above description of the embodiments is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. The above specification, examples, and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although various embodiments of the invention have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

The illustrative apparatus, hats, and methods, described herein may also be described by the following non-limiting examples:

Example 1

An apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat, the apparatus comprising:

-   -   a light source configured to produce light upon receiving         electrical energy;     -   a mount coupled to the light source and configured to         selectively attach to and detach from the hat;     -   a battery receptacle electrically-coupled to the light source         and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more         batteries; and     -   wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light         source to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat.

Example 2

The apparatus of example 1, wherein the light source is configured to illuminate the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 20 lux.

Example 3

The apparatus of example 1 or example 2, wherein the exterior surface corresponds to at least 20% of a total exterior surface of the hat.

Example 4

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-3, wherein the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 30 lumens per watt.

Example 5

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-4, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one of a left-side exterior surface and a right-side exterior surface.

Example 6

The apparatus of example 5, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one of a front-side exterior surface and a rear-side exterior surface.

Example 7

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-4, wherein the exterior surface comprises a band encircling the hat.

Example 8

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-7, wherein the battery receptacle is disposed within the mount.

Example 9

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-7, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the mount.

Example 10

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-9, wherein the battery receptacle comprises the one or more batteries.

Example 11

The apparatus of example 10, wherein the one or more batteries are primary batteries.

Example 12

The apparatus of example 10, wherein the one or more batteries are secondary batteries.

Example 13

The apparatus of example 10 or any one of examples 11-12, wherein the battery receptacle is sealed such that the one or more batteries are non-removable.

Example 14

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-13, comprising:

-   -   a switch configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from         the battery receptacle to the light source.

Example 15

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-14, comprising:

-   -   a photosensor configured to measure an intensity of light in an         ambient environment of the apparatus and, in response, regulate         the flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle to the         light source.

Example 16

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-15, comprising:

-   -   a charging circuit electrically-coupled to the battery         receptacle and configured to regulate at least one of a charging         voltage and a charging current supplied thereto.

Example 17

The apparatus of example 16, comprising:

-   -   a photovoltaic device coupled to the mount and         electrically-coupled to the charging circuit; and     -   wherein mount, when attached to the hat, orients the         photovoltaic device to receive light from an ambient environment         of the hat.

Example 18

The apparatus of example 16 or example 17, comprising:

-   -   a wireless charging device coupled to the mount and         electrically-coupled to the charging circuit.

Example 19

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-18, comprising:

-   -   a control circuit electrically-coupled to the light source and         the battery receptacle and comprising a processor and a wireless         transceiver, the control circuit configured to control at least         one of a driving current and a driving voltage for the light         source.

Example 20

The apparatus of example 19, wherein the control circuit comprises a GPS receiver electrically-coupled to the processor.

Example 21

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-20, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 750 mA·h.

Example 22

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-21, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 1 W·h.

Example 23

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-22, wherein the mount comprises a clip configured to insert into an orifice of the hat.

Example 24

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-23, wherein the mount comprises a circumferential member configured to encircle a perimeter of the hat.

Example 25

The apparatus of example 1 or 7 or any one of examples 2-4 and 8-23,

-   -   wherein the mount comprises a circumferential member configured         to encircle a perimeter of the hat; and     -   wherein the light source comprises a plurality of light sources         disposed on the circumferential member.

Example 26

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-25, wherein the light source comprises at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element.

Example 27

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-26, wherein the light source is configured to emit a broad-band emission of light.

Example 28

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-27, wherein the light source is configured to emit a narrow-band emission of light.

Example 29

The apparatus of example 28, wherein the narrow-band emission of light is an emission of green light.

Example 30

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-29, wherein the light source comprises a light-emitting diode.

Example 31

The apparatus of example 1 or any one of examples 2-30,

-   -   wherein the light source is a first light source;     -   wherein the apparatus comprises a second light source configured         to produce light upon receiving electrical energy, the second         light source electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle; and     -   wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the second         light source to project light outward from the hat into an         ambient environment thereof.

Example 32

The apparatus of example 31, wherein the second light source comprises at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element.

Example 33

The apparatus of example 31 or example 32, wherein the second light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 30 lumens per watt.

Example 34

The apparatus of example 31 or any one of examples 32-33, wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the second light source to project light outward in front of the hat.

Example 35

A hat having improved noticeability, the hat comprising:

-   -   an exterior surface that is visible when the hat is worn;     -   a light source coupled to the hat and configured to illuminate         the exterior surface upon receiving electrical energy; and     -   a battery receptacle electrically-coupled to the light source         and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more         batteries.

Example 36

The hat of example 35, wherein the light source is configured to illuminate the exterior surface at an intensity of at least 20 lux.

Example 37

The hat of example 35 or example 36, wherein the exterior surface corresponds to at least 20% of a total exterior surface of the hat.

Example 38

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-37, wherein the light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 30 lumens per watt.

Example 39

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-38, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one of a left-side exterior surface and a right-side exterior surface.

Example 40

The hat of example 39, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one of a front-side exterior surface and a rear-side exterior surface.

Example 41

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-38, wherein the exterior surface comprises a band encircling the hat.

Example 42

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-41, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat.

Example 43

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-42, wherein the battery receptacle comprises the one or more batteries.

Example 44

The hat of example 43, wherein the one or more batteries are primary batteries.

Example 45

The hat of example 43, wherein the one or more batteries are secondary batteries.

Example 46

The hat of example 43 or any one of examples 44-45, wherein the battery receptacle is sealed such that the one or more batteries are non-removable.

Example 47

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-46, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum current capacity of at least 750 mA·h.

Example 48

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-47, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to hold one or more batteries collectively having a maximum energy capacity of at least 1 W·h.

Example 49

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-48, comprising:

-   -   a switch configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from         the battery receptacle to the light source.

Example 50

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-49, comprising:

-   -   a photosensor configured to measure an intensity of light in an         ambient environment of the hat and, in response, regulate the         flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle to the         light source.

Example 51

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-50, comprising:

-   -   a charging circuit electrically-coupled to the battery         receptacle and configured to regulate at least one of a charging         voltage and a charging current supplied thereto.

Example 52

The hat of example 51, comprising:

-   -   a photovoltaic device coupled to the hat and oriented to receive         light from an ambient environment thereof, the photovoltaic         device electrically-coupled to the charging circuit.

Example 53

The hat of example 51 or example 52, comprising:

-   -   a wireless charging device coupled to the hat and         electrically-coupled to the charging circuit.

Example 54

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-53, comprising:

-   -   a control circuit electrically-coupled to the light source and         the battery receptacle and comprising a processor and a wireless         transceiver, the control circuit configured to control at least         one of a driving current and a driving voltage for the light         source.

Example 55

The hat of example 54, wherein the control circuit comprises a GPS receiver electrically-coupled to the processor.

Example 56

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-55, comprising:

-   -   a mount coupling the light source to the hat and configured to         selectively attach to and detach from the hat; and     -   wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light         source to project light onto the exterior surface.

Example 57

The hat of example 56, comprising an orifice for receiving a clip of the mount.

Example 58

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-57, wherein the light source comprises at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element.

Example 59

The hat of example 35 or 41 or any one of examples 36-38 and 42-58, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of light sources disposed along a perimeter of the hat.

Example 60

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-59, wherein the light source is configured to emit a broad-band emission of light.

Example 61

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-60, wherein the light source is configured to emit a narrow-band emission of light.

Example 62

The hat of example 61, wherein the narrow-band emission of light is an emission of green light.

Example 63

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-62, wherein the light source comprises a light-emitting diode.

Example 64

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-63, wherein the exterior surface comprises a reflective surface.

Example 65

The hat of example 35 or any one of examples 36-55,

-   -   wherein the light source is a first light source; and     -   wherein the hat comprises a second light source         electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle and configured to         illuminate an ambient environment of the hat upon receiving         electrical energy.

Example 66

The hat of example 65, wherein the second light source is configured to illuminate the ambient environment in front of the hat.

Example 67

The hat of example 65, comprising:

-   -   a first mount coupling the first light source to the hat and         configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat; and     -   wherein the first mount, when attached to the hat, orients the         first light source to project light onto the exterior surface.

Example 68

The hat of example 67, wherein the second light source is configured to illuminate the ambient environment in front of the hat.

Example 69

The hat of example 65 or example 67, comprising:

-   -   a second mount coupling the second light source to the hat and         configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat; and     -   wherein the second mount, when attached to the hat, orients the         second light source to project light into the ambient         environment.

Example 70

The hat of example 69, wherein the second mount, when attached to the hat, orients the second light source to project light outward in front of the hat.

Example 71

The hat of example 65, comprising:

-   -   a mount coupling the first light source and the second light         source to the hat and configured to selectively attach to and         detach from the hat; and     -   wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the first         light source to project light onto the exterior surface and the         second light source to project light into the ambient         environment.

Example 72

The hat of example 71, wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the second light source to project light outward in front of the hat.

Example 73

The hat of any one of examples 65-72, wherein the first light source, the second light source, or both, comprise at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element.

Example 74

The hat of any one of examples 65-72, wherein the second light source has an electrical conversion efficiency of at least 30 lumens per watt.

Example 75

A method for improving the noticeability of a hat, the method comprising:

-   -   producing light from a light source coupled to the hat;     -   orienting the light source such that light therefrom illuminates         an exterior surface of the hat; and     -   wherein the light source is configured to produce light upon         receiving electrical energy.

Example 76

The method of example 75, wherein the exterior surface is illuminated at an intensity of at least 20 lux.

Example 77

The method of example 75 or example 76, wherein the exterior surface corresponds to at least 20% of a total exterior surface of the hat.

Example 78

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-77, wherein the light source is configured to produce at least 30 lumens of light per watt of electrical energy received.

Example 79

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-78, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one of a left-side exterior surface and a right-side exterior surface.

Example 80

The method of example 79, wherein the exterior surface comprises at least one of a front-side exterior surface and a rear-side exterior surface.

Example 81

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-78, wherein the exterior surface comprises a band encircling the hat.

Example 82

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-81, comprising:

-   -   while orienting the light source, distributing light across the         exterior surface using at least one of a refractive element, a         reflective element, a diffractive element, and an         optically-transmissive element.

Example 83

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-82, comprising:

-   -   supplying electrical energy to the light source from one or more         batteries.

Example 84

The method of example 83, wherein supplying the electrical energy to the light source occurs for at least 10 cumulative hours.

Example 85

The method of example 83 or example 84, wherein supplying electrical energy comprises:

-   -   storing electrical energy in the one or more batteries, the one         or more batteries consisting of rechargeable batteries.

Example 86

The method of example 85, wherein storing electrical energy comprises:

-   -   receiving light into a photovoltaic device to produce electrical         energy; and     -   storing electrical energy so-produced in the one or more         batteries.

Example 87

The method of example 85 or example 86, wherein storing electrical energy comprises:

-   -   receiving a magnetic flux in a first wireless charging device to         produce electrical energy; and     -   storing electrical energy so-produced in the one or more         batteries.

Example 88

The method of example 85 or any one of examples 86-87, wherein storing electrical energy comprises:

-   -   receiving an electric field in a second wireless charging device         to produce electrical energy; and     -   storing electrical energy so-produced in the one or more         batteries.

Example 89

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-88, comprising:

-   -   altering an amount of electrical energy received by the light         source to alter an intensity of light produced therefrom.

Example 90

The method of example 89, wherein altering the amount of electrical energy comprises:

-   -   altering the amount of electrical energy in response to an         intensity of ambient light measured by a photosensor.

Example 91

The method of example 89 or example 90, wherein altering the amount of electrical energy comprises:

-   -   producing a pattern of light in response to a wireless signal         received by a wireless transceiver, the wireless signal         representing information that defines the pattern of light to be         produced.

Example 92

The method of example 89 or any one of examples 90-91, wherein altering the amount of electrical energy comprises:

-   -   producing a pattern of light in response to a GPS signal         received by a GPS receiver, the GPS signal representing a         location of the hat.

Example 93

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-92, wherein the light source is coupled to the hat through a mount configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat.

Example 94

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-93, wherein the light source produces a broad-band emission of light.

Example 95

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-94, wherein the light source produces a narrow-band emission of light.

Example 96

The method of example 95, wherein the narrow-band emission of light is an emission of green light.

Example 97

The method of example 75 or any one of examples 76-96,

-   -   wherein the light produced from the light source is a first         light;     -   wherein the light source is a first light source; and     -   wherein the method comprises:         -   producing a second light from a second light source coupled             to the hat,         -   orienting the second light source such that light therefrom             illuminates an ambient environment of the hat, and         -   wherein the second light source is configured to produce the             second light upon receiving electrical energy.

Example 98

The method of example 97, wherein the second light source is configured to produce at least 30 lumens of light per watt of electrical energy received.

Example 99

The method of example 97 or example 98, comprising:

-   -   while orienting the second light source, distributing the second         light into the ambient environment of the hat using at least one         of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive         element, and an optically-transmissive element.

Example 100

The method of example 97 or any one of examples 98-99, wherein the second light source illuminates the ambient environment in front of the hat. 

1. An apparatus for improving the noticeability of a hat, the apparatus comprising: a light source configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy; a mount coupled to the light source and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat; a battery receptacle electrically-coupled to the light source and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries; and wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light source to project light onto an exterior surface of the hat.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mount comprises a clip configured to insert into an orifice of the hat.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mount comprises a circumferential member configured to encircle a perimeter of the hat; and wherein the exterior surface comprises a band encircling the hat.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising: a switch configured to regulate a flow of electrical energy from the battery receptacle to the light source.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising: a charging circuit electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the battery receptacle is disposed within the mount.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the mount.
 9. A hat having improved noticeability, the hat comprising: a light source coupled to the hat and configured to illuminate an exterior surface of the hat upon receiving electrical energy; and a battery receptacle electrically-coupled to the light source and having electrical contacts for coupling to one or more batteries.
 10. The hat of claim 9, comprising: a mount coupling the light source to the hat and configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat; and wherein the mount, when attached to the hat, orients the light source to project light onto the exterior surface of the hat.
 11. The hat of claim 10, comprising an orifice for receiving a clip of the mount.
 12. The hat of claim 9, wherein the exterior surface of the hat comprises at least one of a left-side exterior surface and a right-side exterior surface.
 13. The hat of claim 9, wherein the exterior surface of the hat comprises a band encircling the hat.
 14. The hat of claim 9, wherein the light source comprises a plurality of light sources disposed along a perimeter of the hat.
 15. The hat of claim 9, wherein the battery receptacle is configured to selectively attach to and detach from the hat.
 16. The hat of claim 9, comprising: a charging circuit electrically-coupled to the battery receptacle and configured to regulate at least one of a charging voltage and a charging current supplied thereto.
 17. A method for improving the noticeability of a hat, the method comprising: producing light from a light source coupled to the hat; orienting the light source such that light therefrom illuminates an exterior surface of the hat; and wherein the light source is configured to produce light upon receiving electrical energy.
 18. The method of claim 17, comprising: while orienting the light source, distributing light across the exterior surface using at least one of a refractive element, a reflective element, a diffractive element, and an optically-transmissive element.
 19. The method of claim 17, comprising: altering an amount of electrical energy received by the light source to alter an intensity of light produced therefrom.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein altering the amount of electrical energy comprises: altering the amount of electrical energy in response to an intensity of ambient light measured by a photosensor. 